Describing the overseas Indians as catalysts in transforming Indian higher education institutions and instilling in them a culture of excellence as well as the spirit of innovation, President Pranab Mukherjee Thursday said they could play an important role in the growth and development of India.

The President was addressing the closing session of the 12 edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, an annual meet of the Indian settled abroad. He also conferred the Pravasi Samman to distinguish recipient

"Overseas Indians have within them the experience, expertise and knowledge gained as a result of their life abroad, which could be of immense benefit to India.” They can play an extremely important role in helping the education institutions of India, most of which are their Alma Maters, rise to world class status.

Addressing the gathering, President Mukherjee reiterated that overseas Indians could play an important role in the growth and development of India.

He said they had within them the experience, expertise and knowledge gained as a result of their life abroad, which could be of immense benefit to India. "Overseas Indians could play an extremely important role in helping the education institutions of India, most of which are their Alma Maters, rise to world class status. They could be catalysts in transforming Indian higher education institutions and instilling in them a culture of excellence as well as the spirit of innovation," he added.

President Mukherjee expressed the hope that the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2014 will seed many initiatives for deepening mutually beneficial engagement. “It is a matter of great pride to all Indians that the Overseas Indian community is respected for its work culture, discipline, and successful integration with local communities.” "The greatest hallmark of the Indian diaspora is its commitment to our common cultural heritage and passion for motherland India," the President added. He stated that the government on its part will continue to actively engage with the overseas Indian community and explore all possible avenues to make them valued partners in the building of a strong and prosperous India.